Canon launches new 16-35mm and 10-18mm zooms

Wide view: Canon’s new, image-stablised 16-35mm f4. Image: CanonCanon has announced two new wide-angle zoom lenses: the professional spec 16-35mm f/4 L and a 10-18mm EF-S zoom, for APS-C cameras.

The EF 16-35mm is an ultra-wide, image stabilised USM lens. The pro-spec L designation means the lens is weather seaed as well as at the top of the Canon range for optical quality. It is the first Canon ultra wide to come with image stabilisation.

Canon has a faster f2.8 lens covering the same focal length, but without stabilisation; Canon claims the IS gives the f4 model an additional four stops when it comes to handholding. The EF 16-35 f4 has a nine-blade aperture.

As a wide, image-stabilised lens, the EF 16-35 is likely to appeal to videographers using the Canon EOS C100 or C300, as well as full-frame DSLRs, such as the 5D mk III. The trade off is between image stabilisation, and the additional two stops of brightness on the current, Canon EF 16-35mm f/2.8L II USM, wide zoom. The new EF 16-35mm f4 goes on sale in June.

The EF-S 10-18mm f/4.5-5.6 IS STM is a new ultra-wide zoom option for APS-C cameras, such as the EOS 7D. The lens gives the equivalent of a 16-29mm focal length on a full-frame camera; it can also be used with Super35mm cameras equipped with an EF mount.

EF-S option

The new 10-18mm lens also has four stops of image stabilisation, as well as Canon’s STM motor system, which claims to provide near-silent autofocus operation, and responsive AF on cameras such as the C100 and 70D, which use dual-pixel AF systems. The lens has seven diaphragm blades, and a closest focusing distance of 22cm.

The 10-18mm lens will also go on sale in June.

The 16-35mm lens will cost £1199.99 and the 10-18mm, £299.99, including VAT.

Canon is currently offering cash back to buyers in UK and Ireland on a range of cameras and lenses, including the full-frame 6D and the 70D.